Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, has always been a destination I wanted to visit, not just for its beautiful landscapes, but also for its vibrant culture and bustling shopping scene. Over the course of my trip, one of the most exciting parts was discovering the best spots to buy jewelry in this charming city. From sleek modern designs to traditional Maori-inspired pieces, Auckland offers a wealth of options for anyone looking to buy a special piece of jewelry.
In this blog, I’ll take you on a tour of the best places to buy jewelry in Auckland, sharing my personal experience along the way. Whether you’re a collector of fine pieces or looking for a memorable souvenir, you’ll find some gems in this city. Let’s dive into my favorite jewelry shopping destinations!
1. Queen Street: Auckland’s Heartbeat of Shopping
Queen Street is the main shopping artery of Auckland, filled with high-end boutiques, department stores, and everything in between. As soon as I stepped onto Queen Street, I was greeted by the buzz of people, street performers, and, of course, the array of luxury and unique jewelry shops.
One shop that immediately caught my attention was Pipi Jewelry. This boutique specializes in New Zealand-made, handcrafted jewelry. The store’s designs reflect the natural beauty of the country, with many pieces inspired by the ocean, flora, and fauna. I found a beautiful sterling silver necklace featuring a delicate fern design, which, as it turns out, is a symbol of New Zealand’s national identity. The fern motif was simple yet elegant, a perfect representation of New Zealand’s natural elegance.
2. Britomart: A Stylish District with Unique Finds
Just a short walk from Queen Street is Britomart, a trendy area known for its chic boutiques and contemporary designs. This district offers a more curated selection of jewelry, and I found it to be the perfect place to discover local designers with a modern twist.
A store that stood out to me here was Fitzgerald Jewelry, a family-owned business that prides itself on creating unique, bespoke jewelry. The shop’s modern aesthetic and minimalistic designs immediately appealed to me. The pieces here, which often incorporated gemstones and diamonds, were both timeless and bold. I remember trying on a pair of earrings that featured large, polished black onyx stones set in yellow gold. They were simple yet dramatic, and I could easily picture wearing them both for casual outings or more formal events.
The jewelry pieces at Fitzgerald Jewelry felt exclusive and personal. I appreciated the chance to talk to the staff about the design process and how they source materials, which added to the overall experience. If you’re looking for something with a bit more edge and sophistication, this is the place to go.
3. Newmarket: Auckland’s Fashionable Neighborhood
Newmarket is a short bus ride from the city center and is a must-visit for anyone looking to buy fashion-forward jewelry. The area is known for its luxury stores and premium shopping experiences. Among the best places I visited in Newmarket was The Jewelry Studio, a multi-brand boutique offering a wide variety of both contemporary and vintage pieces.
The atmosphere in The Jewelry Studio is warm and welcoming, and the staff is extremely knowledgeable about the brands they carry. I was particularly drawn to a collection of rings from Michael Hill, a renowned jeweler with a strong presence in New Zealand. Their pieces are perfect for those looking for elegant designs with a modern touch. I tried on a stunning sapphire ring set in white gold, and the sparkle of the stone left me in awe. It was the perfect combination of sophistication and timeless beauty. Michael Hill offers a range of pieces, from engagement rings to everyday accessories, all crafted with impeccable attention to detail.
Newmarket is also home to many unique independent jewelers, where the design of the jewelry reflects a more local flavor. One of my favorites was Meadowlark, a jewelry brand known for its delicate designs and use of ethically sourced materials. The pieces were feminine and delicate, with a touch of bohemian flair. The shop’s collection included beautiful rings adorned with semi-precious stones like turquoise and moonstone, perfect for someone looking for something a little different from mainstream jewelry.
4. Auckland’s Waterfront: Artisan Jewelry and Handcrafted Treasures
Auckland’s waterfront area, near the Viaduct Basin, is another hidden gem for those in search of unique jewelry. The vibrant area is not only known for its stunning harbor views but also for its collection of artisan shops. One place I discovered was The New Zealand Jade Store, which specializes in handcrafted jade jewelry. New Zealand jade, or pounamu, holds deep cultural significance for the Maori people, and many of the pieces were crafted with stories and meanings behind them.
I picked out a small, intricately carved pendant that symbolized strength and protection. The carving was done by a local artisan, and the quality of the jade was breathtaking. It was a perfect blend of craftsmanship and cultural significance, and wearing it made me feel a special connection to New Zealand’s rich history.
In addition to jade, the waterfront area is also home to many other local artisans selling jewelry made from materials like wood, bone, and glass. If you’re looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, this area is a must-visit. Each shop has its own unique style, and you’ll often find jewelry pieces that you won’t find anywhere else.
5. Ponsonby: A Bohemian Paradise for Jewelry Lovers
Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s most fashionable neighborhoods, known for its vibrant street art, hip cafes, and boutique shopping. It’s also home to some of the most unique jewelry stores in the city. If you’re looking for bohemian-style jewelry with a creative flair, Ponsonby is the place to be.
One store that immediately caught my eye was The Tiki Boutique, which specializes in handcrafted jewelry with a distinctive Maori influence. The store carries a range of jewelry pieces that incorporate traditional Maori symbols and designs, such as the koru (spiral) and manaia (guardian spirit). The pieces were both modern and deeply rooted in tradition, making them perfect for those looking for jewelry that represents both cultural heritage and contemporary style.
I ended up purchasing a stunning bracelet with a silver manaia design. It was the perfect mix of boho chic and cultural symbolism, and I’ve worn it nearly every day since my trip. Ponsonby is filled with other hidden gems, so be sure to explore the alleyways and side streets for more artisan jewelry shops that might surprise you.
6. Auckland’s Markets: Find Affordable Jewelry with a Local Touch
No trip to Auckland would be complete without exploring the local markets. If you’re on the hunt for affordable, yet beautiful, jewelry, the Auckland City Market is a great place to start. Held every weekend at the Auckland Fish Market, this market features a range of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry.
I spent a few hours wandering through the market and came across a vendor selling beautiful wire-wrapped rings and necklaces made from locally sourced stones. The designs were simple, but the natural beauty of the stones shone through. I picked out a small necklace with a polished piece of paua shell—a New Zealand shellfish known for its iridescent colors. It was an affordable yet meaningful piece that reminded me of my time in New Zealand.
Markets are a great way to support local artisans while picking up a piece of jewelry that is unique and affordable. The vibe at these markets is relaxed and friendly, and you’ll find that many of the sellers are eager to share the stories behind their creations.
7. Auckland’s Jewelry District: The Place for Fine Jewelry
For those interested in fine jewelry, Auckland has a dedicated Jewelry District located around the Victoria Park Market area. This part of the city is home to a range of jewelers, from those offering diamonds and precious stones to those specializing in custom-made pieces.
One shop that stood out to me was Hannah Jewelry, known for its high-end craftsmanship and innovative designs. The store offers a range of stunning pieces, including engagement rings, luxury watches, and bespoke jewelry. I was particularly taken by the delicate diamond bracelets they had in the window. The diamonds sparkled in the light, and I couldn’t resist trying on a few pieces. While the prices were higher than some of the other shops I’d visited, the quality of the materials and the attention to detail were well worth it.
If you’re looking for something truly special—perhaps an engagement ring or an anniversary gift—this district is the place to find a piece that will last a lifetime. The jewelers here are experts, and they offer a range of options to suit every budget.
Auckland offers a vibrant, diverse, and eclectic jewelry shopping scene, and I found the process of discovering the perfect pieces to be just as enjoyable as the city itself. Whether you’re after something luxurious, traditional, or affordable, you’ll find a wide array of jewelry that reflects the city’s rich culture and artistic spirit.
